Whale Watching in Sydney

Highlights

Hop on a whale watching tour

The whale-watching season along NSW's east coast runs from May to November. If you're enjoying some time in Sydney during these months make sure you experience this beautiful sight by joining a whale-watching cruise departing from Circular Quay, or visit one of Sydney's open whale-viewing platforms.

Whale Watching in Sydney

Cape Solander in Botany Bay National Park is one of the best whale-watching locations in Sydney and has a public viewing platform for you to enjoy the experience. The site is also part of a long-running whale-counting volunteer program running each June and July.

If you're venturing to Sydney's northern beaches, Manly Whale Watching Tours are available on a variety of vessels, from sailing boats to power cruisers. If you want to journey out in a smaller, private group Sydney Eco Tours offer a four hour yacht cruise.

Australia is one of the best countries in the world for whale watching as more than 50 percent of the planet's cetaceans - otherwise known as whales, dolphins and porpoises - are found here. Nine species of baleen whales and 36 species of toothed whales make their home in Australian waters.

Today, whales, dolphins and porpoises are protected in Australian waters, and thanks to conservation measures, whale populations have steadily increased since the late 1970s. Whale numbers are now plentiful as they travel along NSW's east coast.

To see where the whales are right now in maps you can use the Wild About Whales app. This will also give you tips on how to spot them and the best vantage points.

The Bondi to Coogee Walk is a picturesque coastal route featuring beaches, bays, rock pools, cliffs and of course stunning views. The 6 km route also meanders past some superb whale-watching vantage points, so you can watch whales migrating to the northern waters from the clifftops during this idyllic stroll.

Viewing Platforms

Some of the finest vantage points for whale watching are the viewing platforms scattered along the coast. The Gap near Watson's Bay offers an impressive cliff top view of the Tasman Sea. Maroubra Beach is also a great spot in which you can witness humpback whales meander up north.